Ferrari 612 (04-10) - Review

This is the nearest Ferrari has come to making a family car but there's not much Mondeo-like about a 0-62mph time of 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 199mph. That comes courtesy of a naturally aspirated and surprisingly muted 5.7-litre V12 producing 540bhp. Alternatives like the Bentley Continental GT and the Mercedes CL65 use turbochargers and consequently have more torque so feel instantly explosive. Of course the 612 isn't slow, but it is smoother and power delivery seems to be endless. A six-speed manual gearbox comes as standard but most customers opt for the six-speed paddle shift semi-auto, however the manual is the better choice as the paddle-shift system isn't as smooth as a conventional automatic. The standard steel brakes are impressive but the optional carbon setup offers even better stopping power.

Although the engine is mounted in the front, it's placed as far back as possible to aid handling. And it works. This 1840kg four-seater will tackle B-roads like a proper sports car, displaying fine balance and plenty of grip. All 540bhp is deployed to the rear wheels but thanks to a sophisticated traction control system all that power is kept in check. Body control is excellent and although the steering is a little lighter than you'd expect, it's responsive and precise nonetheless. However while the 612 plays the sports car part effectively, it isn't quite as accomplished in its primary GT role. Fast motorway journeys can be tiring, particularly in bad weather, when the 612 needs far too much attention at the wheel.